Mercedes-AMG has taken the covers off its new C43, and it has received comprehensive performance updates as well as a new hybrid powertrain. Based on the W206 C-class, the AMG C43 now features sporty styling tweaks on the exterior, along with AMG-specific interior updates.
- Mercedes C43 gets a 2.0-litre turbocharged hybrid powertrain
- Gets reworked chassis components for improved driving dynamics
- Will be offered in sedan and estate body styles
Mercedes-AMG C43 exterior: gets sharper looks
In order to differentiate the C43 from the standard C-Class sedan, Mercedes has equipped it with traditional AMG styling touches. These include the Panamericana grille with vertical slats, adaptive LED headlights with a single Daytime Running Lamp, large air intakes on the front bumper with black accents and gloss-black wing mirrors.
The side profile remains largely similar, apart from the new ‘Turbo Electrified’ badges, beefier side sills and standard 18-inch alloy wheels. At the rear, the AMG C43 now gets quad tailpipes and a different rear bumper with a diffuser for improved aerodynamics.
Mercedes-AMG C43: powertrain and dynamics
The biggest update on the new AMG C43 is the introduction of the new 2.0-litre, four-cylinder engine with an electric turbocharger. Codenamed the M139, the hybrid powertrain replaces the old turbocharged 362hp, 3.0-litre V6 engine used by earlier C43 models. Thanks to the 48V mild-hybrid system, the new engine produces 402hp and 500Nm of torque, with an additional 13hp via a boost function. This has been mated to a nine-speed automatic gearbox with ‘Race Start’ functionality that sends power to all four wheels via the 4Matic drive system.
To compensate for the improved performance from the new powertrain, Mercedes-AMG has heavily reworked the chassis and added a revised front axle. Additionally, the C43 gets the AMG Ride Control suspension with double wishbones at the front, and adaptive dampers and multi-links at the rear. Braking performance has also been improved thanks to the new 370mm steel discs with four-piston calipers up front and 320mm steel discs with single-piston floating calipers at the rear. The car also gets a modified exhaust for the characteristic AMG soundtrack for both the sedan and the estate.
Mercedes-AMG C43: upgraded AMG interior
On the inside, the AMG C43 gets AMG-specific digital graphics for the 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and the 11.9-inch touchscreen system. Other AMG-specific updates include a leather-wrapped flat-bottom steering wheel, sports seats, pedals and red seat belts.
Mercedes-Benz: future plans
The German manufacturer recently unveiled the Edition 55 versions of the AMG A35 and CLA35, along with its flagship EQS electric SUV for global markets. Mercedes-Benz is currently working on launching the new C-class in India on May 10 that will rival the Audi A4, BMW 3 Series, Volvo S60 and Jaguar XE. The brand also introduced the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class in India earlier this year.
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